Between her brand new family and the success of ABC’s “Scandal,” Kerry Washington is arguably having the year of her life.

Portraying the ultimate political fixer, leader of her team (affectionately known as her Gladiators), and all-around best-dressed badass, Olivia Pope, Washington has paved the way for strong, female leads on television. She truly is a force to be reckoned with.

When she was nominated for Best Actress in a drama last year, Washington became the first African-American nominee in her category in 18 years. With a second consecutive nomination, could this be her year?

In TheWrap’s Emmy nominee Q&A quickie, Washington spoke about her experience on Season 3 of “Scandal,” the other show that would get her Emmy vote, and the clever ways she hid her pregnancy from viewers.

What was the toughest thing you had to do this season?Kerry Washington: This was for sure Olivia’s darkest season so far. It was a wonderful challenge to play such a powerful woman experiencing her own powerlessness.

What was the most fun thing you had to do this season?Hide behind purses, stacks of paperwork and Tony Goldwyn‘s leg. [Editor’s note: Washington was pregnant while shooting the last season and had to hide it because her character wasn’t.]